A conversation with the Asian champion and world runner-up on discipline, perseverance, and the making of a true martial artist.
Inside the Journey of a Champion: Exclusive Interview with Asian Wushu Gold Medalist and World Runner-Up
1. Thanks for your time! So where does this interview find you? What’s on tap for the rest of your day?
I am currently recovering after the tournament.
2. Please tell us about your early life.
I was born in Tabriz, and I began exercising when I was five years old. My family enrolled me in a gymnastics class because I was very active as a child. When I eventually began training in Wushu, I was invited to the national team camp just five months later.
From 2005 onward, I was sent to international competitions.
I am an Asian champion and a world runner-up. My journey has included injuries and challenges, but I have never allowed them to stop me from reaching my goals.
I have also completed several training courses in China, and I hold coaching and refereeing qualifications. Currently, I am a student at Shahid Beheshti University.
3. When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as a Wushu athlete?
In 2004.
I was only six or seven years old when I entered Wushu through my father, who was himself a Wushu instructor.
4. What is the qualification required to be a Wushu athlete?
Wushu does not require a special academic degree.
However, to teach the sport, one must complete the necessary certification courses.
Wushu is unique because anyone can excel regardless of physical condition—what matters is discovering your individual talent within the sport.
5. What is your greatest professional achievement?
I have earned more than 15 international medals throughout my career. My biggest achievements are the two world medals I won in 2019.
In 2008, I earned the first world medal in the history of men’s Wushu Tai Chi, and I remain the only male athlete to win medals across various styles on the international stage—across youth, junior, and senior categories.
My international achievements include:
- 2 World Medals – Indonesia (Bali), 2008
- 2 Asian Medals – Macau, 2009
- 1 Asian Medal – Shanghai, China, 2011
- 1 Eurasian Medal – Azerbaijan, 2012
6. Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful Wushu athlete?
No.
A Wushu athlete must have a strong mind, great agility, and clear focus to achieve their goals.
7. Has there been one particular moment in your sports career that you’re most proud of?
The moment the results are announced—when your name appears on the results screen and they declare your victory.
That is the greatest moment in a Wushu athlete’s life.
8. If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
My advice to new athletes is to first discover their talent through an experienced coach or proper training equipment.
Knowing your strength early helps you build a stronger foundation.
9. Would you like to share anything else with our readers about yourself or your career?
My last word:
Have a goal—and seek the path to success by learning from those who have already achieved it.
Note: This interview was written by FaezAkbari
